Miller Thunderbolt Opinions

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This is an add from C-list in my area. Wondering what the general consensus is on this machine. He has pictures included and everything looks good. I am going to look at it tomorrow. Asking $450. Sound like a good deal?  Thanks in advance. "Model: Miller Thunderbolt XL 200/300amp AC/DC stick welder (arc, smaw)Not to be confused with the under powered miller thunderbolt 225/150amp machine. This is a much more powerful machine, with a much higher duty cycle rating. Capable of handling any size material you throw at it. Very smooth arc. Made in the USA.My grandfather bought this welder new 4 years ago, i inherited it after his passing. The stinger looks like it has only burned a handful of rods. Great condition, perfect for hobbyist or professionals. Runs & works great. The welder fell off a work bench, I replaced the fan, and complete amperage dial. Looks a little beat up but the insides are in perfect working order. Tested by local miller dealer. Also included is a $100 wheel set w/ handle."
Reply:In my area, that's a good buy !!  Rarely even see 'em for sale .
Reply:I would get the serial number to verify age. My MILLER 2006 catalog does list the 200/300. That price isn't too bad. Prices vary by location. I don't see too many of those for sale. Offer $400.00. I would definitely try it at various settings. Take some rod and steel just in case. Here's MILLER'S Serial Number Reference Chart.  If it's older try lowing the price and say it maybe a problem getting parts since it's not the under powered one.    http://www.millerwelds.com/service/s...reference.html
Reply:$350...
Reply:Thanks for the advice and quick responses. It's about 2 hours from where I live so I hope the drive is worth it.
Reply:Take CASH , and hope he has goodies to go with it, GOOD LUCK!
Reply:Make sure and check the input voltage. Miller made some 460 volt only models - which you likely do not have.The data plate will tell you the input voltage.It will likely say 220 or 230/400 or 460 volts on it.Last edited by MinnesotaDave; 01-15-2014 at 07:24 AM.Dave J.Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance. ~George Bernard Shaw~ Syncro 350Invertec v250-sThermal Arc 161 and 300MM210DialarcTried being normal once, didn't take....I think it was a Tuesday.
Reply:I did read about the input voltage. I check to make sure.
Reply:Well the fellow had to leave town for work so I won't get a chance to look at it until Monday.  Does anyone know if you can hook a wire feeder to this machine?
Reply:http://www.millerwelds.com/service/l...&submit=SearchHere's Miller site for manuals on it but you need serial number for exact book. This will help. Above is for different serial numbers. pick oneI think this is for the last year made. http://www.millerwelds.com/om/o316t_mil.pdf
Reply:Hi,  Just thought I would mention.  I remember asking about that welder in Welders Supply And they said it didnt have the CSA  approval to be sold in Canada  Some safety concerns I think.
Reply:Originally Posted by rollonWell the fellow had to leave town for work so I won't get a chance to look at it until Monday.  Does anyone know if you can hook a wire feeder to this machine?
Reply:Originally Posted by rollon Does anyone know if you can hook a wire feeder to this machine?
Reply:Alright I understand, not a good option. Thanks for the information. BD1 thanks for the link that will be helpful in the future.
Reply:Great welder. I have one. Built like a tank. Will survive the Zombie Apocalypse.
Reply:Any up date ?
Reply:Almost, our schedules haven't worked out. We are supposed to meet tomorrow at 5 so, as long as everything works as it should I'll will definitely buy it. I'll keep you updated and maybe post a few pictures. Thanks for the interest and again for all the great advise I do appreciate it.
Reply:REMINDER,  TAKE CASH, and test drive !
Reply:Planning on it. I let him know I wanted to burn a few rods and he said "bring as many as you like". Hopefully this means he knows the machine functions flawlessly!
Reply:Bring some 3/16" rods so you can crank it!A few weldersA lot of hammersA whole lot of C-clamps
Reply:Purchased, I have to leave town for work in the morning so I will not get a chance to do much with it until next week.
Reply:Give us some pictures of your new addition to the family!!!Lincoln Power Mig 216Lincoln AC/DC-225/125Miller  625 X-Treme PlasmaMiller 211 Forney 95FI-A 301HF 91110Victor Journeyman O/PMilwaukee DaytonMakita  Baileigh NRA Life Member
Reply:$$$$$$$$$$$$  ?    Were you able to beat him up on price ??   Any extra goodies ?
Reply:No, he was firm on the price and after getting advise here I started looking around in the local areas, almost all the older top handle versions were still being sold for 300-450 and the thunderbolt 225's I saw were in the 300-600 range depending on extras. Did I get a great deal? Probably not bit I think it's fair and this is the first 300/200 I've seen for sale around here. It looks perfect and functions perfect, so far. I'll try to get pictures up next week.
Reply:I think you did well. Those are hard to find. Good luck with new toy !